The Best Nature photography walks in Santa Monica, California

Welcome to Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, a breathtaking natural park located in Calabasas, California, just a short drive from the bustling city of Los Angeles. Our park offers a serene escape into nature with diverse hiking opportunities suitable for all levels of adventurers. Explore Solstice Canyon, where you can choose from easy, moderate, or challenging hikes through stunning coastal sage scrub and vibrant riparian plant communities. Enjoy a leisurely picnic or a peaceful stroll along the Solstice Canyon Trail, or test your endurance on the Rising Sun Trail. One of our most popular attractions is the perennial waterfall, a perfect destination for hikers. Along your journey, keep an eye out for local wildlife such as acorn woodpeckers, alligator lizards, fence lizards, and the majestic red-tailed hawk soaring above.

Welcome to Leo Carrillo - Staircase Parking Lot, your convenient gateway to the stunning Leo Carrillo State Park. Nestled at 40000 Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, California, our parking facility offers easy access to the park's diverse natural attractions, just 28 miles northwest of Santa Monica along the iconic Highway 1. Leo Carrillo State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring 1.5 miles of pristine beach perfect for swimming, surfing, windsurfing, and surf fishing. Explore the enchanting tide pools, coastal caves, and reefs, or enjoy a leisurely walk among the giant sycamores shading our main campgrounds. Adventure awaits in the park's backcountry, where you can discover the former ranch landscape and the serene stock pond at the Nicholas Flat Natural Preserve.

Welcome to the Mishe Mokwa Trailhead Parking Lot, conveniently located on Yerba Buena Road in the scenic Westlake Village, California. Nestled in the heart of the Santa Monica Mountains, our parking facility serves as the perfect gateway for nature enthusiasts eager to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Mishe Mokwa Trail. Known for its stunning vistas, diverse wildlife, and serene environment, this park is a haven for hikers, photographers, and outdoor lovers alike. Our parking lot provides easy access to the trailhead, ensuring a seamless start to your adventure. Whether you're here for a leisurely walk or a challenging hike, the Mishe Mokwa Trail offers a variety of paths and loops that cater to all skill levels. Enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, dramatic rock formations, and lush greenery as you traverse this iconic trail.

Welcome to Split Rock, a hidden gem nestled along the scenic Mishe Mokwa Trail in Westlake Village, California. This enchanting park and tourist attraction offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and tranquil escape. Located in the heart of the Santa Monica Mountains, Split Rock is a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and families looking to explore the great outdoors. As you venture along the picturesque trails, you'll be greeted by breathtaking vistas, diverse wildlife, and the remarkable geological formations that give Split Rock its name. This serene park is an ideal spot for a leisurely hike, a peaceful picnic, or simply to reconnect with nature. Whether you're a local resident or a traveler seeking adventure, Split Rock promises an unforgettable experience filled with exploration and discovery.

Palisades Park is a stunning oceanfront park located on Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica, California. This picturesque park offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and is a popular tourist attraction in the area. With its lush greenery, palm trees, and walking paths, Palisades Park provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy picnics, leisurely strolls, or simply relax and take in the stunning coastal scenery. Whether you're a local looking for a peaceful retreat or a tourist seeking a quintessential California experience, Palisades Park is a must-visit destination in Santa Monica.

Welcome to the Ray Miller Trailhead, a breathtaking gateway to nature located in the picturesque Malibu, California. Nestled in the heart of the Santa Monica Mountains, this captivating park and tourist attraction offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems of Southern California. Whether you're an avid hiker, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, the Ray Miller Trailhead promises an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Embark on a journey through well-maintained trails that wind through lush canyons, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged mountain terrain. The trailhead serves as the starting point for various hikes, including the popular Backbone Trail, which stretches across the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. Along the way, discover an array of native flora and fauna, spot local wildlife, and enjoy the tranquility that only nature can provide.

Welcome to Backbone Trail Access at Encinal Canyon, your gateway to adventure in the stunning Santa Monica Mountains! Located on Encinal Canyon Road in Malibu, California, this park offers a unique opportunity to explore the 67-mile-long Backbone Trail, a designated National Recreation Trail. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a peaceful escape from city life, our trail promises an unforgettable experience. Join us each week for a video series hosted by longtime volunteer Ralph Waycott, as we take you through the trail's eight segments and introduce you to LA’s premier hiking experience. Don't hesitate to share your questions, trail experiences, tips, or thoughts with us by emailing samo_interpretation@nps.gov.

Clover Park is a beautiful and serene park located at 2600 Ocean Park Boulevard in Santa Monica, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush green spaces, walking paths, and recreational facilities. Visitors can enjoy picnics, play sports, or simply relax and soak in the natural beauty of the park. Clover Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers, families, and anyone looking for a tranquil outdoor retreat in the heart of Santa Monica.

Welcome to the Backbone Trailhead on Big Sycamore Canyon Road, a stunning gateway to nature located in the heart of Malibu, California. Nestled within the scenic beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains, our park offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the great outdoors. Whether you're an avid hiker, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, the Backbone Trailhead is the perfect starting point for your adventure. Our trailhead provides access to the iconic Backbone Trail, a renowned path that stretches over 67 miles through diverse landscapes, offering breathtaking vistas and a wide array of flora and fauna. Explore the rich biodiversity of the area as you traverse through lush canyons, rolling hills, and serene woodlands. With trails suited for all levels of hikers, from beginners to seasoned trekkers, there's something for everyone to enjoy.